Month: February 2017

A school is an education institution where you build your character, in addition to gaining invaluable knowledge by studying various subjects. Schools in Malaysia are divided into four types – government schools, vernacular schools, private schools, and international schools. The additional categories are day school and boarding school. Unlike day school, boarding school admittance is assessed based on how you fared in national examinations and your participation in extracurricular activities. If you are about to experience boarding school life, check out these essential life hacks on surviving boarding school.

Tip #1: Build New Friendships

Don’t spend the rest of the school year being cooped up in your room or the library. Go out and get to know other students. Feeling shy and anxious? Start by getting acquainted with your roommates and classmates, as you will see them more often. You don’t have to be a people pleaser to make friends. Be true to yourself and people will appreciate your genuineness.

Tip #2: Rules are Not Made to be Broken

As a boarding school student, you are likely to stay back for extracurricular activities (if any) or return to your dorm after school. Therefore you are bound by the school’s rules and regulations at all times. This tip is simple – STAY OUT OF TROUBLE. Don’t put yourself at risk of suspension or being expelled for committing wrongdoings. Besides, it won’t look good in your permanent records.

Tip #3: Sweet Reminders of Home

It’s okay to feel homesick while at boarding school since you are away from your family and the comfort of your home for an extended period. Keep photographs of your loved ones or create a photo collage that serves as a lovely reminder of everyone back home.

Tip #4: Cleanliness is Next to Godliness

If you’re sharing a room with other students, be mindful of your hygiene. Don’t leave your belongings scattered all over the place, because there’s no one to clean up after you. Create a duty roster among yourselves so that everyone has a responsibility in keeping the living space spotlessly clean.

Tip #5: Participate in Extracurricular Activities

There’s more to schooling life than studying textbooks and sitting for exams. The extracurricular program lets you participate in various societies and clubs that suit your interests (e.g., drama, arts, or sports), where you’ll be able to meet like-minded folks (refer to Tip #1). Active participation in extracurricular activities also enhances your résumé and Curriculum Vitae (CV), which helps when you step into the working world.

Attending school is not just a rite of passage in one’s life. It’s a stepping stone towards achieving greater things in life. Don’t be too absorbed about scoring a string of A’s. Enjoy your boarding school life and make wonderful memories while you can.